We propose a mathematical model to describe enzyme-based tissue degradation in cancer therapies. The proposed model combines the poroelastic theory of mixtures with the transport of enzymes or drugs in the extracellular space. The effect of the matrix-degrading enzymes on the tissue composition and its mechanical response are accounted for. Numerical simulations in 1D, 2D and axisymmetric (3D) configurations show how an injection of matrix-degrading enzymes alters the porosity of a biological tissue. We eventually exhibit numerically the main consequences of a matrix-degrading enzyme pretreatment in the framework of chemotherapy: the removal of the diffusive hindrance to the penetration of therapeutic molecules in tumors and the reduction of interstitial fluid pressure which improves transcapillary transport. Both effects are consistent with previous biological observations.
A Continuum Mechanics Model of Enzyme-Based Tissue Degradation in Cancer Therapies
Natalini Roberto;
2018
Abstract
We propose a mathematical model to describe enzyme-based tissue degradation in cancer therapies. The proposed model combines the poroelastic theory of mixtures with the transport of enzymes or drugs in the extracellular space. The effect of the matrix-degrading enzymes on the tissue composition and its mechanical response are accounted for. Numerical simulations in 1D, 2D and axisymmetric (3D) configurations show how an injection of matrix-degrading enzymes alters the porosity of a biological tissue. We eventually exhibit numerically the main consequences of a matrix-degrading enzyme pretreatment in the framework of chemotherapy: the removal of the diffusive hindrance to the penetration of therapeutic molecules in tumors and the reduction of interstitial fluid pressure which improves transcapillary transport. Both effects are consistent with previous biological observations.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
